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Irene May Ellis, affectionately known as Dolly Lindrum, was born on May 13, 1922, to Percy Dunn and Florence Lindrum. She was the beloved niece of legendary Australian billiards champion Walter Lindrum, who considered her the daughter he never had. Following her mother’s death during childbirth, Dolly was adopted by her grandparents and raised in Melbourne. Under her grandfather’s watchful eye, she excelled at billiards, even making century breaks, showcasing her natural talent and passion for the sport. Although she initially prioritized her studies, Dolly eventually left school to care for her grandfather, further deepening her connection to the Lindrum legacy.

Dolly played an active role in managing the family billiard room at 317 Flinders Lane, which became a popular gathering spot for billiards enthusiasts. In 1968, she married Bill Ellis, and together they continued to uphold the Lindrum family’s rich billiards history. Dolly was immensely proud of her uncle Walter’s accomplishments, often reminiscing about his world records and sharing anecdotes from his remarkable career.

In her later years, Dolly dedicated herself to preserving the family’s memorabilia and worked closely with various charities, particularly those promoting cue sports in Australia. She passed away in 2019 at the age of 96, leaving behind a legacy intertwined with the rich history of Australian billiards. Dolly is fondly remembered by her friends and the patrons of the Lindrum rooms for her unwavering dedication to preserving the family’s heritage and her contributions to the sport.